Ames TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ames, Texas.
1. Clay Mound Sporting Center
PREMIER SHOOTING RANGE
Clay Mound Sporting Center offers a comprehensive shooting experience for both beginners and experienced shooters. The facility features multiple shooting ranges suitable for various firearms and skill levels. Visitors appreciate the professional staff and well-maintained grounds that ensure a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.
2. Lake Liberty
SCENIC WATERFRONT RECREATION
Lake Liberty provides a serene escape for water enthusiasts and outdoor lovers near Ames. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities with bass, catfish, and crappie among the popular catches. Visitors can also enjoy boating, picnicking along the shoreline, and watching for local wildlife in this natural setting.
3. Jason Catchings Hunting and Fishing Adventures
GUIDED OUTDOOR EXPEDITIONS
Jason Catchings Hunting and Fishing Adventures provides expertly guided hunting and fishing trips in the Ames area. Their experienced guides offer customized experiences for hunters and anglers of all skill levels throughout the year. The service is highly rated for its professional approach and success rate for visitors seeking authentic Texas outdoor adventures.
4. Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge
NATURE AND WILDLIFE HAVEN
Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 25,000 acres of diverse habitats near Ames. The refuge protects important bottomland hardwood forest ecosystems and provides sanctuary for numerous wildlife species including migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife photography, and educational programs that highlight the ecological significance of this protected area.
5. Liberty Municipal Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Liberty Municipal Park offers a variety of recreational facilities for residents and visitors near Ames. The park features playgrounds, sports fields, picnic pavilions, and walking paths for daily enjoyment. Community events and gatherings are frequently held here, making it a social hub for the area.
6. Liberty Opry House
LIVE COUNTRY ENTERTAINMENT
Liberty Opry House presents live country, gospel, and classic rock performances in a historic setting. The venue offers a family-friendly atmosphere with homestyle dining options available during shows. Visitors appreciate the authentic Texas entertainment experience and the preservation of traditional musical heritage.
7. Sam Houston Regional Library and Research Center
HISTORICAL ARCHIVES AND MUSEUM
Sam Houston Regional Library and Research Center preserves the historical records and artifacts of Southeast Texas. The facility houses important documents, photographs, and exhibits related to the region's development and notable figures. Visitors can explore both the archival collections and the museum displays that bring local history to life.
8. Dayton Old School Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE DISPLAYS
Dayton Old School Museum showcases the educational and cultural history of the area in a restored historic schoolhouse. The museum features classroom recreations, vintage photographs, and artifacts from daily life in earlier eras. Visitors gain insight into educational practices and community development through carefully curated exhibits and knowledgeable volunteer docents.
9. Hull-Daisetta Rotary Club Park
OUTDOOR COMMUNITY SPACE
Hull-Daisetta Rotary Club Park provides recreational facilities for residents in the communities surrounding Ames. The park offers playground equipment, covered picnic areas, and open green spaces for various activities. Local families particularly enjoy the well-maintained grounds for weekend gatherings and casual sports.
10. Jax Grill House
CLASSIC TEXAS BARBECUE
Jax Grill House serves authentic Texas barbecue with slow-smoked meats and homestyle sides. The restaurant's rustic atmosphere provides a genuine dining experience with generous portions and friendly service. Visitors often recommend the brisket and ribs as standout items on their extensive menu of Texas favorites.
11. The Purple Turtle Art Studio
CREATIVE ART EXPERIENCE
The Purple Turtle Art Studio offers artistic experiences for various ages and skill levels near Ames. The studio provides classes, workshops, and open studio time for exploring different artistic media and techniques. Visitors appreciate the welcoming environment that encourages creative expression and artistic development.
12. Dayton Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Dayton Historical Society Museum preserves and presents the rich history of the Dayton area through artifacts and exhibits. The museum showcases items from early settlement days through modern times, highlighting significant local events and personalities. Visitors can explore changing displays that offer fresh perspectives on regional heritage throughout the year.
13. Texas Railhead BBQ
SMOKEHOUSE AND GRILL
Texas Railhead BBQ offers mouthwatering smoked meats prepared using time-honored Texas traditions. The casual eatery features a menu of brisket, ribs, sausage, and classic sides in a friendly, unpretentious setting. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the authentic flavors and generous portions that capture the essence of Texas barbecue culture.
14. Liberty Vineyards
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Liberty Vineyards produces distinctive Texas wines using locally grown grapes and traditional winemaking methods. The winery offers tastings in a charming setting where visitors can sample various vintages while learning about the winemaking process. Weekend events often feature live music, food pairings, and special releases that showcase the unique character of Texas wines.
15. Crossroads Trading Post
ANTIQUES AND LOCAL CRAFTS
Crossroads Trading Post features an eclectic collection of antiques, vintage items, and locally made crafts in downtown Ames. The shop offers everything from historical artifacts and collectibles to handcrafted jewelry and home décor created by area artisans. Visitors enjoy browsing the ever-changing inventory and discovering unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of rural Texas.